The private hire industry is always faced with some sort of drama or another. From the constant battles involving Uber and the licensing authorities to changes in the licence application process, drivers are being kept on their toes. This is why in recent years, we have seen a huge spike in the number of drivers illegally picking up passengers they are not covered to.
Two private hire drivers from Nottingham have been the latest to be caught out. According to the courts, the drivers were stung by an undercover operation, caught plying-for-hire when picking up undercover police officers at the side of the road. Only having a licence to pick up customers that have pre-booked, the two were fined for their actions.
Mustafa Nasserie was told by the District Judge, Leo Pyle, that he had operated in a way that was ultimately greedy.
Ben Payne, prosecuting, said:
“He (the officer) asked if he would take him into the city. The defendant asked him where he wanted to go and he said the Trinity Square area. The defendant agreed and both officers got in.”
District Judge Leo Pyle told him: ‘You drove your Toyota straight through the licensing laws which are aimed at ensuring all persons are fit and proper, vehicles are safe and ultimately the public are safe.
“The only thing I am able to conclude is that this was for a quick gain and ultimately greed.”
The court then heard a similar story from Gurnam Taak, another private hire driver found to be picking up fairs without the correct hackney carriage insurance cover.
Both drivers have now received 8 points on their licences as well as being issued to pay large fines for their wrongdoings.
Let us know what you think. Should the police be doing more to crack down on such drivers or are we making it too hard for private hire drivers to make an honest living? Share your thoughts with us.
